Multiple galleries in historic home

The space

The art

The staff

Best for

Our Review

Give us the big picture here.There are eight different exhibition spaces, showing the work of local, Australian, and international artists, emerging and established, who work in a wide range of mediums.

And what's the building like?During the 1860s gold rush, The Convent was built as a private residence, but about two decades later it was bought by the Catholic Church and converted into a convent and boarding school. Tina Banitska purchased the property in 1988 and turned it into a gallery. From its hilltop position overlooking Daylesford, the sprawling three-level complex includes retail spaces, café, bar, and gardens. The nuns’ infirmary and one of their bedrooms have been left as they were as an insight into the building’s history.

Sounds cool. Now, what's on the walls (or in the gardens)?Look, whether you’re a collector or just want to check out the local scene, this is a great pitstop during a Daylesford overnighter. The curators and owner don’t feel beholden to any particular style or medium, so you’re likely to see figurative portraits in one room, and ink drawings in another. Don’t forget to go for a stroll in the gardens, where you can enjoy district views along with a series of bronze sculptures and other artworks that have been chosen to blend with their surroundings.

Any feedback about the staff?They’re unobtrusive when they need to be, but in the café and bar, it’s all rather friendly and enthusiastic.

Cool. So, ultimately, why should we go?If you’re in Daylesford and the weather sets in, this is a cozy spot to spend a few hours. Anyone with even the slightest interest in art should enjoy a stroll through the galleries and gardens. It’s an interesting building, too, that unveils a little of the district’s history.